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Regular City Council Meeting Monday, March 22, 2010 Page 19 Discussion included the need to consider long-term maintenance of the pathway system, not just construction and/or replacement; prioritization of the Pathway Master Plan, last reviewed and updated in 2008 with no dedicated fund in place and no reprioritization at that time; taking advantage of opportunities as they arise and are included in related area projects, and when grants for those specific areas become available. Ms. Bloom and Mr. Schwartz addressed the number of smaller pathway connec- tions and/or improvements made over the last few years, with the Rice Street cor- ridor being another major priority. Ms. Bloom estimated that current indications are that the City may be a minimum of 25% through the priority list, with no oth- ers on the horizon at this time due to a lack of funding sources. Councilmembers requested that staff provide more definitive information to the City Council with actual numbers. Further discussion included the need for neighborhood connections not currently on the Pathway Master Plan list at this time; needed connections between multi- family buildings and bus stops; and additional coordination by staff with other agencies to enhance pedestrian safety near parks or at connection points. Councilmember Ihlan requested additional staff information on the cost for addi- tional striping on County roads and/or signage at crosswalks and related costs to enhance pedestrian safety, specifically near parks. Councilmember Roe requested additional staff information on costs for additional right-of--way maintenance on state and/or county roadways where additional maintenance was indicated or preferred to improve the City's aesthetics. In conclusion, Ms. Bloom reviewed a number of regulator mandates increasing staffls work load, including MPCA permitting and education on the MS4 Permit and Illicit Discharge ordinance; erosion control; Total Maximum Daily Load stu- dies as part of Watershed Districts and implementation projects to reduce that loading; attempts to improve storm water drainage issues and elimination of the infiltration/inflow surcharge through acity-wide program; FEMA mapping for flood plains with an ordinance scheduled to come before the City Council in the near future for implementation by June of 2010; updating storm design frequen- cies and cycles; and areas of partnership, coordination and advise involving staff participation with other communities and/or agencies. Ms. Bloom further re- viewed ADA inventory requirements for crosswalks and implementation of timed and audible crossing signals; and staffing challenges in providing assistance to residents for rain garden installations, with staff fielding between 30-60 inquires annually, and needing education and outreach to encourage such community en- thusiasm and interest.